We refine plastic and composite components intrinsically and extrinsically
Master Refinement of Polymer and Composite Products
Further improving good materials with new approaches
How do I prevent dirt from adhering? How do I increase the strength of plastics? How do I increase the conductivity of composite materials? How do I make plastics and composites biodegradable and therefore sustainable? If you are interested in questions like these, our English-language Refinement of Polymer and Composite Products (RPCP) degree program is the right place for you. This globally unique degree program will provide you with in-depth knowledge of the strategies and possibilities for refinement, i.e. giving plastics and composites higher-quality properties. You can also work in research during your studies as part of our national and international research projects and deepen your initial international experience with a semester abroad. In the “Research” specialization, you can define and carry out your own research project.
After graduation, your Master's degree will offer you excellent job prospects in fast-growing industries. Or you can decide to continue your research as part of your doctorate.
At a glance
Degree
Master of Science
Study Type
Graduate Studies, Präsenzstudium
Study Model
Full time studies
Campus
Pirmasens
Faculty
Applied Logistics and Polymer Sciences
Normal period
3 Semester
Requirements
- Three year Bachelor´s degree or Diploma in Engineering or Natural Sciences or equivalent qualification (210 European Credit Transfer System -ECTS-, in case of 180 ECTS a gateway is possible). The final grade of the degree should be well above average (?2.5? or better according to the German System).
- If English is not the native language or was the teaching language for the Bachelor degree: Sufficient knowledge of the English language verified by a TOEFL (min. score 72 points), TOEIC (min. score 785 points), IELTS (min. 5.0) or equivalent.
- If German is not native language: Proof of German language skills (B1 or equivalent)
Pre Placement
Start Informations
Summer and Winter Term
Teaching Language
englisch
Accreditation
Systemakkr.
Why study Refinement of Polymer and Composite Products (RPCP) at Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences:
Refinement of Polymer and Composite Products can only be studied at Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences at the Pirmasens campus and is the only course of its kind in the world. Another special feature is the varied mix of scientific teaching, practical training and small research projects:
- Motivated staff provide individual support
- You will apply your theoretical knowledge directly in practice in our modern laboratories
- Our research projects give you deep insights into scientific practice and the chance to build a career network at an early stage
- Towards the end of your studies, you choose the topic of your Master's thesis according to your personal interests or conduct it in a company
- Spend a semester abroad at one of our partner universities.
„The University is in a pleasant and convenient location with excellent infrastructure. The program provides a thorough curriculum that includes academic understanding and practical expertise in polymer and composite advancement. Labs are equipped with cutting-edge equipment for hands-on learning. The library has access to many resources that can help you learn new things. The pond near campus is my favorite feature since it allows you to spend your free time with local and other international students.“
Rahul Kovuru studies in the 2nd Semester Refinement of Polymer and Composite Products
Refinement of Polymer and Composite Products offers a research and application-oriented education for students with an interest in materials science of plastics, processing of plastics and composites and the implementation of their own small projects. The course includes excellently equipped laboratories for research and development.
Students start in the “Engineering” specialization and can switch to the “Research” specialization after one semester. The Master's thesis takes place in the third semester. Students who have been admitted with a Bachelor's degree with 180 ECTS can make up the missing 30 ECTS at a partner university or as part of an internship in the third semester. The Master's thesis then takes place in the fourth semester.
This unique combination of courses is geared towards current market requirements and the increased use of weight-reducing and sustainable materials and functional surfaces. To impart the necessary knowledge, the course combines basic lectures such as Advanced Mechanics, Advanced Material Science and Mathematics with specialist lectures such as Research Management, Material and Surface Characterization and Coating Technology and Functional Surfaces.
Graduates are qualified to undertake doctoral studies.
- High-quality theoretical and practical training
- Graduation with the professional title Master of Science
- Research projects in modern laboratories at the university
- Collaboration in ongoing projects on current research topics
- Opportunity to spend a semester abroad at universities in Europe
- Optimal practical transfer through a Master's thesis in industry
Career prospects
After graduating from the “Refinement of Polymer and Composite Products” course, you will have excellent career opportunities as an engineer in the traditional areas of the plastics and textile industry, in the aviation and automotive industries and in traditional mechanical engineering. Alternatively, you can also start your career in research or expand your expertise with a doctorate.
„I had a great experience during my master's course at the Pirmasens campus. The best thing about my studies was the "Learning by Doing" approach. I gained valuable exposure in my field by working in the labs with the knowledge I acquired through my lectures. The professors and other faculty members were always available to help the students. The location of the university is pleasant and calm, and being in a town, Pirmasens helped me learn the language quickly as most of the locals speak German. Interacting with them also helped me improve my language skills.“
Shameem Akthar Shaik, Alumni, is doing his doctorate at the University of Applied Science Kaiserslautern
Resources and projects
Training in a particularly dynamic subject area also requires the constant updating of course content and equipment. To ensure both, our professors work in research projects at the forefront of current science.
Projects:
Completed:
- "LxMat - Development of a breathable latex mattress made from natural raw materials using new manufacturing processes and fillers, which is 20% lighter and 25% cheaper compared to commercially available products and is particularly mite-repellent - (2021 - 2023) funded by AiF - ZIM - Cooperation projects - funding code: KK5225901NK0
- "Design and construction of an innovative ice technology test rig for the development of fluorine-free glide waxes and coatings with optimal performance" - (2021 - 2022) funded by Federal Institute for Sports Science - funding code: ZMI4-072012/21-22
Current
- Biobased cycle-oriented recycling of EVA plates and insoles for orthopaedic shoe insoles - WEVA-ORTH - (2023 - 205) funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research: 03WIR4507A